Hi Proud Mom,
It is very true that medication is not for everyone, but many people with OCD, myself included, have had their lives turned around with medication (and typically with cognitive-behavioral therapy, as well).
Getting the right medication(s) in the right dosage(s) can take skillful adjustment by an expert in meds. Typically, such a doctor would expect to be apprised regularly of changes, problems, etc. with medication. No psychiatrist worth his salt would simply expect to put someone on medications and have the same dosages or even meds work over time. It can take quite a while to get things just right, but once they are, then benefits can be enormous.
Psychiatrist medications do not have to be increased in dosage over time. Usually they will be increased or decreased until the correct level is achieved, then that dosage can be maintained for a long time. However, sometimes an entirely different medication will need to be tried.
I've known people who have gone through the drill and feel they will never do prescription meds again, and I've known people who have thrived on meds. I have known a number of teens on medication who are doing well.
Naturally, if an over-the-counter regimen can help, by all means, that could be terrific. At the same time, if that doesn't do it, I wouldn't let one unfortunate experience with meds and docs turn you off the possible benefits forever.
I've been fortunate, because my psychiatrist is of the old school - he does meds, CBT, regular counselling, whatever you need to be fully supported. I think it's really important to get a doctor you have excellent rapport with, whom you and your son feel you can discuss anything with. Psychiatrists have about 25 times more training in meds than psychologists do (at least that is true in New Mexico), so I would rely on one for any med issues. Whatever you do, if you choose to go this route, get one very experienced with children.
I wish you all the best in helping your son. It is possible to live successfully with OCD!
Warm regards,
Maggie
